Genesee Grange Records (Coleta)

Collection

Identifier: RHC-RC-102

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

These records document the history of the Genesee Grange No. 1849 of Coleta, Illinois from 1934 through its dissolution in 1979. Although records detailing the first three years of the Grange’s existence are missing, minute books (1934-1974) relate the social orientation of Genesee Grange meetings toward relieving the isolation of farming life through group discussion and entertainment programs. A single treasurer’s account book (1938-1978) contains financial information on grange expenses for supplies, social activities, and dues. In addition to the Genesee Grange records, a minute book and membership demits of Zion Grange of Savanna, Illinois detailed business and social concerns of that organization from 1963-1972.

Dates

created: 1931-1979
Other: Date acquired: 07/01/1980

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restriction on access to the collection

Conditions Governing Use

Property rights in the collection are held by the Regional History Center; literary rights are dedicated to the public.

Biographical or Historical Information

Genesee Grange No. 1849, Coleta, Illinois, organized in January 1931. The Coleta Town Hall and member’s homes served as monthly meeting places throughout the Grange’s history. Primarily a social organization, the Genesee Grange sponsored holiday parties, picnics, dinners, and lectures, and started a Goleta Boy Scout Troop. By 1979 membership declined so low that the members voted to disband. The Zion Grange No. 1934 of Savanna, Illinois formed in May 1963. Similar to the Genesee Grange, this group held its meetings in member’s homes, the local V.F.W. Hall, or at Zion School and sponsored various social gatherings. Declining membership forced the organization to disband in 1972.

Note written by

Extent

2.25 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Source of Acquisition

Mr. Paul Sites

Method of Acquisition

Mr. Paul Sites, Milledgeville, Illinois donated the Genesee Grange Collection to the Regional History Center on July 1, 1980.

Accruals and Additions

Additional records were added to the collection by Mrs. Paul Sites on May 14, 2004.

Related Materials

Researchers should note a number of other collections held by the Regional History Center which relate in whole or part to the Grange organization: South Grove Grange (RC 61), Etna Grange (RC 63), Hanover Scenic Grange (RC 64), Round Grove Grange (RC 68), Willowdale Grange (RC 80), Westfield Grange (RC 88), Milledgeville Grange (RC 101), Harmony Grange (RC 108), and the Laura Cooper Collection (RC 44).